Peer Support Specialist | Mobile Crisis

Benchmark Human Services-ID•Coeur d' Alene, ID

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

Benchmark Human Services is seeking Peer Support Specialists to join their Mobile Response Team (MRT) in Idaho. The MRT provides 24/7 crisis response to youth and adults experiencing mental health, behavioral health, or suicidal crises. Peer Support Specialists work in teams of two with clinical staff to engage clients, provide de-escalation and support during crises, and connect them to community resources. The role involves non-clinical assistance, supporting individuals beyond the immediate crisis resolution, and requires flexibility to meet client and team needs. Benchmark emphasizes a mission of empowering individuals to live independently and be included in their communities, and fosters a workplace that values employee diversity and authenticity.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Lived experience with a minimum of 2 years of continuous recovery from a Serious Mental Illness and/or substance use disorder diagnosis.
At least one year of experience working with individuals with mental illness and/or substance-related disorders who are experiencing a behavioral health crisis.
Valid driver’s license and auto insurance.
Valid CPR and First Aid Certifications.
Must be computer literate.
Certified as a Peer Specialist by at least one of the following credentialing entities: a. Addiction Professional Certification Board as a Certified Recovery Support Practitioner (CRSP) or a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS); b. Mental Health Association in Idaho as a Certified Recovery Support Practitioner (CRSP) c. NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals as a National Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist (NCPRSS); d. Certified Wellness Coach e. Community Mental Health Associate certificate.
Knowledge of standards and organization policies and procedures.
Knowledge of health care privacy and confidentiality rules.
Knowledge of standard health care business practices.
Must possess & demonstrate critical thinking skills.
Skillful in use of computers & general office equipment.
Skillful in interpersonal communication needed to advocate for individuals, communicate with family members, healthcare professionals, support coordinators and others.
Provider manual crisis operations standards.
Ability to facilitate a positive atmosphere promoting holistic health, wellness and team cooperation.
Ability to de-escalate individuals experiencing acute crisis and/or interpersonal conflict.
Ability to implement physical crisis intervention procedures when needed.
Complete all notes/documentation for each Individual accurately and in a timely manner before the end of the work shift.
Utilize good judgment in providing treatment for individuals.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in social sciences from an accredited college or university.
Knowledge of community services and resources relevant to social determinants of health.

Responsibilities

Provide de-escalation and support to clients and families during crisis.
Connect clients to resources and community-based services as needed.
Meaningfully engage with various clients and families.
Provide crisis follow-up services within 72 hours of crisis disposition.
Complete face-to-face or telephonic follow-up with individuals after crisis response.
Ensure individuals are linked with appropriate follow-up psychiatric, substance use, social, medical services and/or community resources before discharge.
Complete documentation as required by Benchmark Human Services or state and federal regulations.
Assist in the completion of safety plans, as directed by the clinician.
Attend advocacy and community meetings in the region to provide education regarding mobile crisis services.
Assist the individual in identifying resources for recovery.
Attend all scheduled training and staff meetings.
Assist with crisis response as required, including face-to-face response within an average of 60 minutes.
Report any suspected abuse, neglect or exploitation to supervisor or department head.
Communicate needs of the individual, regarding social determinants of health to supervisor.
Other duties as assigned.